Connector Assembly Plug-in Sequence Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical plug connector assemblies lack a robust mechanism to ensure a defined plug-in sequence for two pairs of connectors, particularly in applications where safety requires a specific order of connection, such as in airbag systems.
Innovation Solution
The electrical plug connector assembly features a housing with a locking element that is displaceably mounted to block the insertion opening initially, allowing connection of the second connector to the first, which then clears the path for the fourth connector to connect to the third, ensuring a defined sequence through a guide bolt and guide surface interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking element blocks the insertion opening to prevent premature connection, then the plug-in sequence control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A guide bolt acts as an intermediary element that translates the connection action of the second connector into displacement of the locking element. The guide bolt interacts with the guide surface to move the locking element from blocking to non-blocking position, providing a reliable sequence control mechanism without requiring complex electronic controls or multiple locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to be automatically actuated by the guide bolt during the normal connection process of the second connector. The connection action itself provides the force to displace the locking element through the guide surface interaction, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms or additional energy sources.
2Strength
If a guide bolt and guide surface mechanism is used to displace the locking element, then the robustness of the mechanism is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element transitions from a static blocking position to a dynamic displaced position during the connection process. The guide surface is designed with specific geometric features that guide the locking element through a controlled displacement path, allowing the mechanism to adapt to normal manufacturing tolerances while maintaining reliable sequence control.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the guide surface and guide bolt are designed to work together within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. The guide surface incorporates features such as inclined planes or cam surfaces that convert the connection force into reliable locking element displacement, providing robustness that compensates for normal manufacturing variations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electrical plug connector assembly comprising a first connector (2), a second connector (29), a third connector (3) and a fourth connector (33). The first and the second connector (2, 29) form a first pair of connectors. The third and the fourth connector (3, 33) form a second pair of connectors. The first connector (2) and the third connector (3) are arranged on a housing (1). A locking element (7) is provided on the housing (1). The locking element (7) is configured as a slide and is displaceably mounted on the housing (1). In a starting position, the locking element (7) blocks at least partially an insertion opening (15) on the housing (1) for inserting the fourth connector (33) into the third connector (3). The second connector (29) has a guide bolt (30). The locking element (7) has guide surface (37, 52). On connection of the second connector (29) to the first connector (2), the guide bolt (30) acts on the guide surface (37) to urge the locking element (7) into a release position. In the release position, the locking element (7) clears the insertion opening (15) for connecting the fourth connector (33) to the third connector (3).